At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Finance Director in overseeing financial compliance and reporting.
- Company: Join a leading legal firm committed to inclusivity and professional growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for career advancement.
- Other info: Collaborate with diverse teams and enhance your leadership skills.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in finance while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in financial control within the legal sector.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity to recruit a Financial Controller for a 12 month FTC within our Finance department.
Provide support to the Finance Director and Commercial Financial Controller in overseeing cashiering, reporting, revenue and financial compliance, and step in to cover managers when needed. Help ensure the firm’s compliance with applicable HMRC legislation and the Solicitors’ Accounts Rules, working closely with the Client Account Compliance Officer to provide day‑to‑day compliance support to the COFA. Help manage lock‑up by driving activity in WIP management, billing and collections. Review and approve office and client account payments. Support delivery of the year‑end financial audit and SAR compliance audit. Ensure robust financial controls and policies are in place and consistently followed. Identify, assess and address financial risks and opportunities. Ensure proper accounting records are maintained. Oversee, approve and enhance key internal and external reporting produced by the Reporting team. Produce and distribute ad hoc management information to support decision‑making. Analyze and model new initiatives, proposals and financial scenarios. Assess potential suppliers in accordance with the firm’s supplier management policy development. Review and update relevant policies and guidance notes to ensure they remain current and effective. Design and deliver best practice training for fee earners, including partners. Develop strong working relationships with key stakeholders across the business. Collaborate closely with the Financial Systems Manager, IT and other business services teams to design and implement solutions, with a focus on automation where possible. Contribute actively to the ongoing development of the firm’s practice management system.
Other skills required:
- A qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with a minimum of 5 years PQE and a minimum 3 years’ experience as a Financial Controller within the legal sector.
- Strong understanding of the Solicitors’ Accounts Rules.
- Sound knowledge of VAT and partnership tax.
- Strong leadership, interpersonal and communication skills.
- Proven ability to lead, manage and develop a team.
- SQL and Power BI reporting skills would also be an advantage.
- Experience of Elite 3E would be beneficial.
- Excellent attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy.
- Current knowledge of accounting principles and relevant standards.
- Experience in preparing financial statements and managing audits.
- Ability to manage competing priorities and respond effectively to the demands of partners and other key stakeholders.
Equal opportunities:
Forsters LLP is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible hiring experience for everyone. We strive to attract and encourage applications from all candidates regardless of their gender, age, race, nationality, marital status, disability, sex, sexual orientation or religious beliefs. If you require any support or adjustments in the application or hiring process, please let us know.
Financial Controller, Finance (12 month FTC) in London employer: Forsters LLP
Forsters LLP is an exceptional employer that values inclusivity and professional growth, making it an ideal place for a Financial Controller to thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, a collaborative work culture, and a focus on compliance and financial excellence, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while working alongside experienced professionals in the legal sector. Located in a vibrant area, the firm offers a supportive environment where your contributions are recognised and rewarded.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller, Finance (12 month FTC) in London
✨Join Financial Networking Events
Jump into local finance meetups and conferences — they’re a goldmine for temporary roles in banking and financial services. You can chat with industry professionals and even get leads on upcoming opportunities that might not be posted online yet.
✨Utilise Temp Agencies Specialised in Finance
Reach out to temp agencies that focus on the banking sector. They often have strong ties with various firms and can help you secure short-term gigs that can help beef up your CV and get your foot in the door at firms like Forsters LLP.
✨Connect with Alumni from Your Uni
Don't underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network. Many former students are working in banking and can help you find temporary roles or even offer mentorship. Reach out directly or attend alumni events to broaden your circle.
✨Stay Active on Job Boards and Company Websites
Keep your eyes peeled on job boards specifically for finance roles. Companies like Forsters LLP might post temporary positions directly on their sites, so make sure to apply there too. Set alerts to catch those roles the moment they go live!
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller, Finance (12 month FTC) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:In banking and financial services, your academic record can really make you stand out. List relevant grades, certifications, or coursework on your CV, especially if you've taken finance-related modules. This is particularly important for a temporary role where qualifications can help you shine even brighter!
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you’ve done any internships, part-time roles, or even coursework that aligns with banking or finance, make sure you include those! Showcase specific tasks where you used quantitative skills or analytical thinking, as this is what the hiring managers at Forsters LLP will be keen to see in your application.
Tailor Your Cover Letter Purposefully:When writing your cover letter, focus on why you’re interested in a temporary position at Forsters LLP. Let them know how you can quickly adapt to the team's needs and how eager you are to learn the ropes of the banking sector during this short stint. Your motivation and enthusiasm could really set you apart!
Be Prepared with References:For temporary roles, references can play a crucial role in your application. Make sure you’ve got a couple of references lined up who can vouch for your skills and work ethic. This helps to give Forsters LLP confidence in your short-term commitment to the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Forsters LLP
✨Brush Up on Financial Regulations
Since this is a role in banking and financial services, be ready to discuss key regulations like MiFID, Basel III, or GDPR. These are hot topics, and your awareness of how they impact daily operations can give you a significant edge during your interview with Forsters LLP.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare for interview questions that assess your analytical abilities. You might need to tackle hypothetical scenarios involving risk assessment or financial forecasting. Bringing examples of relevant projects or coursework can emphasise your practical understanding of these concepts.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
For a temporary role, showing that you can quickly pick up new processes and tools is crucial. Be ready to discuss previous experiences where you had to adapt to changing requirements or tight deadlines, as this will reassure Forsters LLP that you’re a reliable team player.
✨Demonstrate a Willingness to Learn
In a temporary position, leaning into your eagerness to learn can really set you apart. Be prepared to share how you’re staying updated on industry trends or any additional training you've pursued. Employers appreciate candidates who are proactive about their development—even for short-term roles.
